CDL School Requirements Checklist: Medical Card, CLP, Background Check & Drug Test
Complete before-you-enroll checklist for CDL school: DOT physical requirements, CLP permit steps, drug test info, and background check details in plain English.
Warning: If a school is not on the federal registry, you cannot get your license. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are verified against the 2025 FMCSA database.
In This Guide
- 1.Quick Checklist: What You Need Before Day 1
- 2.1. DOT Medical Card (Physical Exam)
- 3.2. Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
- 4.3. Drug Test (DOT Pre-Employment)
- 5.4. Background Check
- 6.5. Basic Documents & ID
- 7.Timeline: When to Get Each Requirement
- 8.Cost Breakdown
- 9.FAQs
✅ Quick Checklist: What You Need Before Day 1
- Valid state driver's license
- DOT Medical Card (physical exam)
- Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)
- Social Security card (original or certified copy)
- Clean drug test within 30 days
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a DOT physical cost?
A DOT physical typically costs $75-$150 at certified medical examiners. Some urgent care clinics offer them for around $100. Your CDL school may have partnerships with local providers for discounted rates.
What disqualifies you from a DOT physical?
Major disqualifiers include: uncontrolled diabetes, certain heart conditions, epilepsy, vision below 20/40 (even with correction), hearing loss, and some medications. Many conditions can be managed with proper documentation from your doctor.
How long is the CLP valid?
A Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP) is valid for 180 days (6 months) in most states. You must hold it for at least 14 days before taking your CDL skills test. If it expires, you'll need to retake the written tests.
Do I need to pass a drug test before CDL school?
Most CDL schools require a drug test before you start or during the first week. This is a DOT-regulated urine test. Marijuana is tested even in legal states—federal law applies to commercial driving.
Will a DUI disqualify me from getting a CDL?
A single DUI typically won't prevent you from getting a CDL, but there's usually a waiting period (often 1-3 years) and it may limit which companies will hire you. Multiple DUIs or a DUI while driving a commercial vehicle is much more serious.
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